UK and Norway form alliance to hunt Russian submarines
The UK has announced a new defence agreement with Norway that will see the two countries’ navies operating side-by-side in the North Atlantic to track Russian vessels and defend critical underwater infrastructure.
Signed in the wake of a 30% increase in Russian vessels threatening UK waters over the past two years, the new Lunna House Agreement will see the Royal Navy and Royal Norwegian Navy co-operate an interchangeable fleet of British-built Type-26 frigates.
These frigates will patrol the gap between Greenland, Iceland, and the UK, monitoring Russian naval activity and defending infrastructure such as underwater cables and gas pipelines.
Both navies will share maintenance facilities, technology, and equipment to create an interchangeable force that can be deployed rapidly wherever it is needed.
Under this agreement, the UK will join Norway’s programme to develop motherships for uncrewed mine hunting, adopt advanced Norweigan airstrike missiles, and conduct joint wargaming with Norweigan armed forces.
Royal Marines will also undergo year-round training in Norway to prepare them for combat in sub-zero conditions.
“At this time of profound global instability, as more Russian ships are being detected in our waters, we must work with international partners to protect our national security,” said Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
“This historic agreement with Norway strengthens our ability to protect our borders and the critical infrastructure our nations depend on.”
“Through joint navy cooperation in the North Atlantic, we’re boosting security, supporting thousands of UK jobs, and showcasing Britain’s world-class shipbuilding on the global stage,” he said.
